From the Research
Staples in the back of the head typically need to remain in place for 7 to 14 days before removal, depending on the specific wound characteristics and healing progress. The scalp has excellent blood supply which promotes faster healing, but the back of the head experiences movement and tension that can affect wound closure.
Key Considerations
- Your healthcare provider will determine the exact timing based on how well your wound is healing.
- During the healing period, keep the area clean and dry, avoiding hair products that might irritate the wound.
- Watch for signs of infection such as increasing pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge.
- When it's time for removal, a healthcare professional will use a special staple remover tool to quickly extract the staples with minimal discomfort.
Evidence-Based Recommendations
The most recent and highest quality study on this topic is from 1, which compared suture to staples for cesarean wound closure in women with a body mass index of 40 or greater. Although this study focused on cesarean delivery, its findings on wound closure can be applied to other types of wounds, including those on the back of the head.
Best Practices
- Keep the wound clean and dry to promote healing and prevent infection.
- Avoid using hair products that might irritate the wound.
- Monitor for signs of infection and seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms.
- Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for staple removal and wound care.
Additional Considerations
- The use of staples for wound closure has been shown to be faster and less painful than sutures, with similar rates of wound complications 2.
- However, the choice of wound closure method ultimately depends on the individual patient's needs and the healthcare provider's professional judgment.